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Ticonderoga: A Driveable Day Trip From Lake George

There's Lake George the lake and then Lake George the Village - and the Town of Lake George! If you limit your visit to the area to just the Town and Village, you're missing out. Take a drive up the western side of the lake to visit the Ticonderoga region. The area is steeped in history, outdoor enthusiasts will love all the recreational opportunities, and you'll find a quieter vibe than at the lake's southern basin.

Hit the Road to Ticonderoga for History & Scenic Sights

At the northernmost part of Lake George, bordering Lake Champlain, you'll find Ticonderoga. In fact, the name even means "between two waters."

canons and a historical actor

Ticonderoga is perhaps best known for Fort Ticonderoga, a massive 18th-century fort built by the French. Today it's a museum that offers live demonstrations and reenactments, a seasonal corn maze, and a historic garden that is worth writing home about.

split image with corn maze sign on left and garden on right

Bonus tip: Fort Ticonderoga allows you to bring your own lunch (they also have a small cafe for grab-and-go options), and there are a ton of picnic tables on site, so it's easy to make a day trip around the museum.

Don't think Ticonderoga's fun stops at the Fort, though. Head out on the water with the Fort Ti Cable Ferry, connect with nature on the LaChute River Walk Trail, and bring the children to Bicentennial Park, where there's a playground, a covered bridge, a waterfall, a walking path, and plenty of space to soak in the sights.

waterfall

Speaking of scenic sights, you can't leave Ticonderoga without taking a drive up Mount Defiance, which looks out over Lake Champlain towards Vermont. It costs $10 to drive up, or, if you visit Fort Ticonderoga beforehand, they'll give you a token to go up for free.

view of trees and water from a summit

Ticonderoga is a popular destination in the Southern Adirondacks, but don't forget about Hague, just under 15 minutes south of Ticonderoga. Click through to the link below for more:

More Adirondack activities and scenic sights await in nearby Hague ยป

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